Starting
with the birth of my first baby in 1982, I became active in La Leche
League of Manhattan. I have been helping babies and mothers with breastfeeding
difficulties since becoming a La Leche Leader in 1984. Certified as
an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant in 1988, I have continued my involvement with
La Leche League, helping with special projects as a leader on Reserve.
My
approach to breastfeeding is shaped by La Leche League ideals, combined
with the expertise required for certification as a Lactation Consultant.
I have a private practice where I provide home visits for breastfeeding
problems, and phone support. I also work part time at Beth Israel Hospital as a Lactation Consultant, at the Breastfeeding Center of Manhattan, which offers many helpful breastfeeding programs and assists mothers directly on the maternity floor.
I
have been active in the community of breastfeeding activists for many
years. I have represented La Leche League International, which has consultative
status as a non-governmental organization, at the United Nations. I
participated for many years in the Steering Committee to Promote Breastfeeding,
meeting in New York City, where I met, and learned from, many of the
people who do their best to protect, promote and support breastfeeding
in our large and diverse city. I am a board member of the New York Lactation
Consultant Association, and have assisted in many educational opportunities
for local Lactation Consultants. Currently, I am the Mentoring Coordinator for NYLCA. I represent NYLCA at the Breastfeeding
Promotion Leadership Committee, a citywide group that brings together
the major organizations working with breastfeeding families.